Pamela Kay (Parker) DeCola

Pamela K. DeCola, a beloved mother, wife, grandmother and sister, passed away at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 in Tanglewood Trace memory care in Mishawaka, Indiana. Born December 28, 1950 in North Manchester, Indiana.

Pam was the daughter of Jerry and LaVerne Parker, both of whom preceded her in death. Pam was a resident of South Bend, with her siblings Steve and Chris Parker, both of whom survive.  Pam graduated from Jackson High School in 1969 and Holy Cross Junior College in 1971.

On June 6, 1971, Pam married the love of her life, Vic DeCola. They raised a close family including their daughter, Jeri DeCola; Son Joe (Andrea) DeCola and Son Mike (Cami) DeCola. She was an amazing grandmother to Sophia DeCola.

Pam enjoyed a career as a realtor with Cressy and Everett Real Estate, where she established lasting friendships.

Pam gave many hours to the community starting when she was in high school and volunteering at Logan Center. Throughout, she volunteered at various organizations including Service Guild, Center for the Homeless, Chiara Home, Logan Industries, and her parish.

Pam had a zest for life, and no one was a stranger.  Their home was filled with family and friends over the years where she hosted many parties, including in her pool.  She enjoyed going places, including San Diego, California where she always stayed in her favorite room at the Hotel de Cornado; vacationing with family and friends and get aways to Chicago and Southwest, MI.

Pam was an excellent cook and often catered for others. Her great passion was Notre Dame Football tailgaters, where she developed the term, “Pammy Burgers” which were enjoyed by all, including her side dishes too.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Pam will be celebrated at 11:00am on Monday, February 2, 2026 at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church, 2310 E. Jefferson Blvd, South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with family from 10:00am until the start of Mass. A visitation will be held the evening before, on Sunday, February 1, 2026 from 2:00pm-5:00pm at Palmer Funeral Homes – Welsheimer Chapel, 17033 Cleveland Road, South Bend, IN. There will be a recitation of the Rosary at 5:00pm. Burial will take place at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Notre Dame, IN. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church or the charity of the donor's choice. 

Palmer Funeral Homes – Welsheimer Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements, and online condolences may be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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